Star Sedge
Carex echinata
Last reviewed: June 2026
Light
part shade
Water
high
Size
4"–24" H × 6"–18" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AZ, CA, CO, CT and 31 more states
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Star sedge is a low-growing native grass-like perennial that forms small clumps in moist, partially shaded areas. It produces small star-shaped flower clusters in late spring and summer, going dormant in winter. This sedge works well as a groundcover or accent plant in consistently moist garden spots.
In an HOA neighborhood
Star Sedge takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: low. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Looks like unmowed grass which many HOAs prohibit
- Goes completely dormant and disappears in winter
- Small size makes it appear weedy rather than intentionally planted
Wildlife value
This sedge provides habitat and nesting material for small birds and supports various insects. While not a major pollinator plant, it contributes to the overall ecosystem diversity in native plant gardens.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Does Star Sedge fit your yard? Open it in Pollinator Patch to check it against your sun, soil, and HOA-conscious filters.